Jacobs' Jack Randl commits to Michigan for hockey

Jacobs sophomore and Carpentersville resident Jack Randl has had a pretty good year when it comes to playing hockey.

Randl played at the USA Boys Hockey Select Camp in July and in the North American Hockey League Showcase tournament in September, both of which garnered him attention to play hockey at the next level.

Colleges came calling, and Monday night Randl made the decision to commit to the University of Michigan, the No. 13-ranked team in the nation.

“It’s very cool and exciting and nice to see some of my hard work paying off,” Randl said.

“There were a few other schools I was considering and it was a hard choice, but I just really liked the student section, the rink and it felt like the best fit for me.”

Randl, who plays left wing, has played the past three years with the Chicago Mission Hockey Club in the High Performance Major Bantam League. This year he is a part of the U-16 team and through four games has two goals and three assists.

Anders Sorenson is in his first year coaching Randl with the Mission and already can see his hockey potential.

"He's an explosive skater, and he plays the game the right way in terms of how he plays 200 feet on the ice and competes hard with a nice quick release shot," Sorenson said.

"I'm not surprised about the attention he's getting. He's a character kid and for his age group has been at the top of the class every year here."

Another possible decision might be looming for Randl next year. Randl has been getting looks as a possible draft selection for the 2016 Ontario Hockey League. The league, which is mostly hosted in Canada, is for junior hockey players who might want to start playing more NHL-like competitive seasons rather than waiting for the traditional college route.

If Randl does get drafted and makes a team, he would have to decide between the league and Michigan, because playing one game in the OHL would forfeit his scholarship.

Right now, however, Randl just has his eyes set on playing for the Wolverines.

“It’s an awesome opportunity and I’m really excited,” Randl said. “I can’t wait to get there and start playing.”